Laziness, fear, lack of self confidence and investigative skills are some of the obstacles which hinder some journalists from proceeding with investigative reporting in various media outlets.
Following such challenges journalists are required to change their mindset and working style in order to be steps ahead in building their capacity by learning from their colleagues.
The challenges were identified here by Tanga-based journalists who were attending a six-day investigative training which came to an end at the weekend and was organised by Tanga Press Club (UTPC) under the aegis of the Union of Tanzania Press Clubs (UTPC).
Facilitator of the training, veteran journalist Mr Deo Mfugale, said in any investigation there is something hidden which need to be revealed, but stressed that the issue should be public interest that could stir up development in the community.
He said journalists should bear in mind that they undertook investigation in order to increase accountability, transparency, good governance, increase in democracy, to bring equality, change the system and at the same time enable law-enforcers to take legal action against the culprits.
He suggested that apart from what is learnt in class, journalists should strive to learn from more experienced investigative reporters. He warned journalists against being used by other people when conducting investigation because the move would make them biased and report without credible evidence
By NESTORY NGWEGA, Tanzania Daily News
